Lee Kang-in: "Regret not joining earlier" — paperwork delayed departure, finally makes 'No. 7' debut at Sangam... "Most important is the team," he emphasizes

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Kang-in (30), wearing an Atletico Madrid jersey, shared his resolve ahead of the new season.

On the 5th (Korea time), Atletico Madrid released an interview video featuring Lee Kang-in through its official channels. This summer, after leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Lee signed a five-year long-term contract with Atletico Madrid until June 2031. He said, "I am delighted to join such a great club. I look forward to meeting the coach, coaching staff, teammates, and fans as soon as possible," sharing his thoughts on the transfer.

Lee Kang-in had planned to travel to Spain immediately after the transfer was confirmed, but his departure was delayed due to paperwork issues, including approval for overseas travel under military service exemptions. Lee stated, "Both the club and I wanted me to join as soon as possible, but there were difficulties in processing the documents," adding, "I truly regret not being able to join earlier."

Although he could not board a flight to Spain, there was no issue with his physical condition. Club officials traveled directly to Korea to conduct medical tests, and dispatched coaches led intense individual training sessions at FC Seoul's training ground (GS Champions Park). Despite the scorching heat, Lee Kang-in completed the training regimen. He explained, "I have been consistently undergoing high-intensity training over the past few weeks. I wanted to join the team in peak physical condition."

The focus of the interview was 'dedication to the team.' Having inherited Antoine Griezmann's iconic No. 7 jersey, Lee Kang-in said, "As a player and as an individual, I have strong competitive spirit. What matters most to me is always helping the team," and reaffirmed his determination: "I want to achieve the goals we set together with the entire team."

He also recalled the intense pressure he felt during away matches against Atletico Madrid while playing for Valencia and Mallorca, along with the passionate support from fans. "It feels truly special now that I am a player of this team," he shared.

Lee Kang-in's unofficial debut is expected to take place in Korea amid high fan expectations. Through the club's SNS, Lee Kang-in said, "See you at the stadium on August 9th," directly greeting fans. Atletico Madrid will play a friendly match against Manchester City of England's Premier League (EPL) at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 9th.

His official debut in Spain's La Liga is expected to come in the opening match of the 2026–27 season against Malaga on the 20th.

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*This content was translated by AI.